Bella Vista
Philadelphia Neighborhood Guide
Welcome To Bella Vista, Philadelphia’s Little Italy
Bella Vista is Italian for “beautiful sight” and the name suits the neighborhood really well! In recent years, Bella Vista has gone from a little-known South East Philly neighborhood to a thriving commercial and entertainment district nestled in a quiet residential area. It is home to over a dozen historical markers along the streets, commemorating the history of the neighborhood and its prominent residents.
You’ll find plenty of housing options in Bella Vista, ranging from modern row homes to single-family homes and even a few Victorian-era homes. There are also plenty of walkable, charming commercial areas where you’ll be able to grab a quick bite or pick up a few groceries.
So, if you’re considering moving to and living in this area, keep reading! Our Bella Vista Neighborhood Guide will answer all your questions and help you decide whether this neighborhood is the one for you.
Bella Vista, Philadelphia: Home Prices, Values, and Market Trends
- $560k Average sale price
- 70Average days on market
- 0%Homes sold over list price
- 97walkability score
- 78public transport score
- 83biking score
About Bella Vista
You’ll find plenty of housing options in Bella Vista, ranging from modern row homes to single-family homes and even a few Victorian-era homes. There are also plenty of walkable, charming commercial areas where you’ll be able to grab a quick bite or pick up a few groceries.
Bella Vista At A Glance


Walkability and Connectivity
Extremely walkable to shops, grocery store and restaurants as well as parks and trails. Easy commute into and around the city via SEPTA


The Lifestyle
Urban, rich with Italian culture, green spaces and local shops and markets.


Employment Opportunities
You can find jobs in universities, research, health and tech as well as Fortune 500 employers located in Philadelphia.


You’ll love…
The Italian influence, the buzzing food scene and the convenient lifestyle by the water.
Where Is Bella Vista, Philadelphia?
Bella Vista is a small neighborhood in South Philadelphia. It is bounded by Washington Avenue, 6th Street, 11th Street, and South Street, a famous part of Philadelphia. To the northwest is Washington Square West, to the northeast is Head House Square, to the east is Queen Village, to the south is Passyunk Square, and to the west is Hawthorne.
Search Bella Vista Real EstateLiving in Bella vista
Bella Vista is a walker’s paradise. The neighborhood is chock-full of charming sidewalks and crosswalks, and the commercial areas are extremely walkable.
Some neighborhoods in Bella Vista are more walkable than others, so make sure you do your research before deciding where to live. If you live in a more suburban-style neighborhood, you’ll be able to walk to nearby parks and trails. And if you live in a more central neighborhood, you’ll be able to walk to work, the grocery store, nearby bars and restaurants and more.
Commuting from Bella Vista can be a breeze thanks to the SEPTA Broad Street subway, that stops at Lombard-South and Ellsworth-Federal, both just a few blocks away. You can also jump on the 23, northbound on 11th Street and southbound on 12th Street; 40, westbound on Lombard Street and eastbound on South Street (except for weekend evenings, when it runs eastbound on Pine Street); 47, northbound on 7th Street and southbound on 8th Street; 47m, northbound on 9th Street; 64, on Washington Avenue
You’ll Also Love Bella Vista If You…


If you love good food
The great thing about living in Bella Vista is that you’re never more than a short walk from your next meal. Whether you want to grab a quick bite or sit down for a leisurely meal with friends and family, you’ll have plenty of options. The oldest Italian restaurant, Ralphs, is located in Bella Vista, serving hearty classic dishes since 1900! Villa di Roma is known for their meatballs but you’ll also enjoy their raviolis and seafood pasta in white wine sauce amongst others. Have a sweet tooth? Indulge in addictive Italian ice cream, strawberry shortcakes and filled-to-order cannoli at Isgro Pastries, located in the Italian Market. Try some of the best cheese along with breads and other yummy treats at Di Bruno Bros. And for your daily dose of fresh coffee, check out Function Coffee Labs.
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If you love Italian culture
Bella Vista is not only the best place to find authentic Italian cuisine, but it is also the home to Philadelphia’s historic Italian Market, the oldest open-air market in the United States. Here shoppers can browse through plenty of Italian-inspired products and taste authentic Italian coffee and treats. The market first established in the late 19th century by Italian immigrants continues to thrive, now home to numerous Asian and Latino-owned businesses selling coffee, cheese, meat, pasta, sandwiches, vegetables, and more. The market also holds events like the 9th Street Stroll and the Italian Market Festival to celebrate Italian culture in the best way possible.
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If you love a tight knit community
If being part of a friendly vibrant community where people are involved in making the neighborhood better, then Bella Vista is the place to be. Here you can take an active role and find like-minded friends. Join Bella Vista Neighbors Association and participate in in the many volunteering opportunities like neighborhood beautification events, block parties, and online events celebrating the neighborhood’s history. Take your children to one of the nearest public pools. Or be part of the Friends of Cianfrani Park, a small group of neighbors volunteering their free time to activate public spaces and transform parks like beautiful spots full of blossoms curved walkways and statues.
SHOW MOREReady To Make Bella Vista Your New Home?
Whether you’re a homebuyer or seeking your next place to rent, we’re here to help. Let’s destress the whole process and get you a place that matches your vision of the perfect home.